New Zealand authorities are continuing their search for Tom Phillips, who has been missing with his three children for almost four years. His family has made a heartfelt appeal urging him to return home. Mr. Phillips took his children—Ember, nine; Maverick, ten; and Jayda, twelve—during a contentious custody battle with their mother in December 2021.
In a touching statement, Phillips' mother expressed her deep sadness, writing, "Every day I wake up and hope that today will be the day that you all come home," while his sister, Rozzi Phillips, reached out to him directly, emphasizing the love and support awaiting him. She noted, "There's a lot of love and there's a lot of support, and we're ready to help you walk through what you need to walk through."
Since their disappearance, there have been sporadic sightings of Phillips and the children, the most notable occurring in October when a group of teenagers spotted them in Marokopa, a small coastal area. The encounter was filmed, revealing Phillips leading his children, all wearing camouflage attire. One of the children reportedly answered affirmatively when asked if anyone else knew they were there, suggesting they are still in hiding.
In a search for answers, New Zealand Police issued an NZ$80,000 (£37,200) reward for any information leading to their whereabouts. The police believe Phillips is still camping in the Waikato region and does not have legal custody of his children. The ongoing investigation has escalated after a warrant was issued for Phillips concerning an alleged bank robbery in Te Kuiti last year, leading authorities to warn the public against approaching him, stating he is likely armed.
Phillips’ family remains hopeful for their safety, reaffirming their desire to reconnect. Julia Phillips wrote a touching note to her son, emphasizing their family bonds and the support available for him and the children.
In a touching statement, Phillips' mother expressed her deep sadness, writing, "Every day I wake up and hope that today will be the day that you all come home," while his sister, Rozzi Phillips, reached out to him directly, emphasizing the love and support awaiting him. She noted, "There's a lot of love and there's a lot of support, and we're ready to help you walk through what you need to walk through."
Since their disappearance, there have been sporadic sightings of Phillips and the children, the most notable occurring in October when a group of teenagers spotted them in Marokopa, a small coastal area. The encounter was filmed, revealing Phillips leading his children, all wearing camouflage attire. One of the children reportedly answered affirmatively when asked if anyone else knew they were there, suggesting they are still in hiding.
In a search for answers, New Zealand Police issued an NZ$80,000 (£37,200) reward for any information leading to their whereabouts. The police believe Phillips is still camping in the Waikato region and does not have legal custody of his children. The ongoing investigation has escalated after a warrant was issued for Phillips concerning an alleged bank robbery in Te Kuiti last year, leading authorities to warn the public against approaching him, stating he is likely armed.
Phillips’ family remains hopeful for their safety, reaffirming their desire to reconnect. Julia Phillips wrote a touching note to her son, emphasizing their family bonds and the support available for him and the children.
